Taniesha Brown, an 18-year-old African American woman, entered Gateway Homeless shelter in July 2008.  "Gateway's staff was compassionate and understanding, and gave me a chance to get back on my feet," she said. "They were always there to listen, and provided me with whatever support I needed to move into transitional housing."

Ms. Brown and her family have been homeless for approximately 2 years. She was living with her grandmother in an over-crowed house. When she first arrived at the shelter she cried because she didn't know what to expect. Even though her mother and three of her other siblings where already in the shelter, Ms. Brown was scared and uncomfortable living there. Since she is 18, she is considered an adult according to the St. Louis City Homeless Services guidelines, so she had to enter the shelter as a single individual.

One of the things she most remembers about Gateway happened while she was trying to obtain a transitional apartment at Haven of Grace Home for pregnant teens.

"I was in the shelter for only one week when Mrs. Muhammad suggested placing me in Haven of Grace Home for pregnant teens," said Ms. Brown. "The next thing I knew, she was on the phone placing my name on the list. She acted immediately to meet my need. I had all my documents except a police report, so she gave me $9.00 out of her pocket and had the staff transport me to get my police report. The next day I was referred to transitional housing."

Taniesha was at Gateway for a week before moving to Haven of Grace Home for pregnant teens. She says she is now looking forward to her new beginning. She will have her first child in November and says she has a beautiful place that offers lots of support. She also will complete her last year of high school and graduate in 2009.

Taniesha is quick to share her gratitude for the care of Gateway's staff, "I have to give thanks to Mrs. Muhammad and the staff of Gateway Homeless Services."